It's about prep for Indian Wells and Miami. No way Andy would be laying a random clay event in Feb (other than Davis cup) when he's getting ready for 2 back to back hardcourt Masters events.

Shrewd move by the organisers - and Murray (avoiding the traditional dash to California from the hardcourts of Dubai). I kept wondering why he was playing a random clay event just before the IW/Miami back-to-back

Shrewd move by the organisers - and Murray (avoiding the traditional dash to California from the hardcourts of Dubai). I kept wondering why he was playing a random clay event just before the IW/Miami back-to-back

keep up Joe - not been paying attention to MW clearly

It's the perfect compromise for Andy between dashing across the Atlantic and back like he used to do and not playing anything in run up to American hard court Masters season (like he did last year). However I don't think we should get too excited about a possible title as he is still feeling his way back and, as pointed out, there are some very dangerous players in the draw (even if Ferrer has withdrawn, which doesn't seem to be official yet)

I think Andy will be the main draw of the event for the organisers, even if Ferrer is playing, which seems uncertain.

I suppose we don't know just now, but all things being equal I think Andy has a pretty good opportunity for a good week. If he can string it together he must surely be the best in the field.

Normally I would think someone like Gulbis would suit Andy to a tee. Gulbis is a big hitter and Andy likes that, or seems to.

If it came to it against Ferrer, I'd pick a fit Andy any time on hard, or anything but clay for that matter. If Andy was below par I could see Ferrer getting through him, but I think it would be close. Andy just seems to have Ferrer's measure.

Fingers crossed for a good week, and hopefully title 29 at the end of it.

By the way, how good of the organisers to get rid of the clay in Acapulco. I vote they do the same at RG. Put grass down instead, that would really pee Nadal off .